Decorative Chrome. Bright mirror chrome on bathroom fittings.
Two Kinds of Chrome Plating
People say chrome plating, but there are two main kinds. Decorative chrome is thin and is made for looks. Hard chrome is thick and is made for strength and wear protection.
They use the same metal, but the layer, the process and the use are very different. Read about our work on the chrome plating page.
Decorative Chrome
Decorative chrome gives a bright, blue white mirror shine. It is a very thin layer, often placed over a nickel layer. The nickel gives smoothness and rust protection, and the chrome gives the shine.
You see it on taps, bathroom fittings, furniture legs, car trim, handles and display stands.
Hard Chrome
Hard chrome is a much thicker layer, often applied straight onto steel. It is very hard and slides well. It protects parts that rub, move and carry heavy loads.
You see it on hydraulic rods, rollers, shafts, pistons and tools. Worn parts can sometimes be built up with hard chrome and then ground back to the right size.
Side by Side
| Point | Decorative Chrome | Hard Chrome |
|---|---|---|
| Main Goal | Looks and light protection | Wear and friction protection |
| Layer Thickness | Very thin | Much thicker |
| Shine | Bright mirror | Can be left matte or polished |
| Base Layer | Usually nickel first | Often straight on steel |
| Common Parts | Taps, trim, handles, stands | Rods, rollers, shafts, molds |
| After Plating | Ready to use | Often ground or polished to size |
How to Choose
Choose Decorative Chrome
When the part is for show, like bathroom fittings, furniture and display pieces.
Choose Hard Chrome
When the part slides, rolls or works under pressure and must resist wear.
Tell Us The Size
Hard chrome changes the size a little, so we need to know your size limits.
Think About Repair
A worn steel shaft may be rebuilt and saved instead of replaced.
Care And Limits
Chrome is tough, but a deep scratch or hit can let water reach the base metal. Keep fittings dry and clean them with a soft cloth. Avoid strong acids and rough pads.
If chrome starts to peel or rust spots appear, bring the part to us. We can strip and replate it. Similar mirror looks are also possible with nickel plating for some jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the size and the job. Hard chrome takes longer and may need grinding, so it often costs more per part.
The chrome itself does not rust, but a deep scratch can let water reach the base metal underneath. A good nickel layer helps protect it.
Yes. Brass is a common base for decorative chrome, often with a nickel layer first.
Yes. We remove the old layer and plate the part again.
No. Stainless steel is a solid metal. Chrome is a thin layer placed on top of another metal.
Need Help With Your Project?
Send us photos, sizes and quantity. Our team will suggest the right finish and send a quote.
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